Once the tattoo has started, the pain will all depend on your tolerance level. Some people say that it feels like being pinched, while others describe it as a slight poking with needles and some say it really hurts, so it varies from person to person. Your overall pain tolerance, the location and size of the tattoo and the experience of the tattoo artist will all be contributing factors to how much pain you will feel.
The tattoo artist will clean the tattoo throughout the process, and again once he has finished. Once he has finished, he will put some ointment on the tattoo and cover it. He will also explain how you should take care of it and what you can and can't do. Most tattoo artists will give you a sheet to take home that contains detailed instructions on caring for your new tattoo. If you have any questions, you shouldn't hesitate to ask when he is going over your care instructions.
